Can anything good come from the Kansas State University Marching Band controversy? I certainly hope so! In fairness you need to know: I’m a former marching band member. I’m a band director’s wife. My husband has directed marching bands at the high...

We are loving life. True, things are super busy these days around our house. Our family calendar is full of concerts, recitals, lessons, rehearsals and all the other things that make a life. But, we still take time to check in with those we love. Checking in means...

We have cleared the hurdles of September! Jeff jumped into the 2012-13 school year at Fort Hays State University. Lessons are scheduled. Classes are in full swing (including the grading). Marching band season is rolling. And, Jeff’s fanfare...

“Overdrive” a brass and percussion fanfare will be premiered by The University of Texas–Arlington brass under the direction of Dr. Douglas Stotter on September 18, 2012 at the season opening of the Dallas Wind Symphony. This piece was composed by Dr....

Jeff and JoAnn are both reading a lot this year. Here are some posts that may provide you some ideas for materials to read: In What should I read? Jeff comments on Milt Allen’s new book: Music, Artistry and Education: A Journey Towards Musical Growth and...

Should pieces for band and/or orchestra be significantly altered to make them accessible for young players? I have just returned from the state convention where this topic was raised again. For the record, I am not referring to transcriptions in which one either...